Central Islip man accused of cruelty to dogs

A Central Islip man has been arrested and charged with eight counts of animal cruelty.

Officials from the Suffolk County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said Harry Tommy Patrick, of 255 Atlantic St., kept seven adult pit bulls and one puppy in at least one inch of their own feces and urine. Some were chained.

The dogs bore several scars and illnesses, the SPCA said. Among the conditions: severe ear infections, Lyme disease, anemia, and open sores on their feet, police said.

One investigator said the dogs' area smelled "like a cesspool," according to a news release.

Three of the dogs were taken to the Veterinary Medical Center of Long Island in West Islip for evaluation, officials said. The rest were taken to the Islip Animal Shelter.